Dynamic weight training apparatus

ABSTRACT

A dynamic weight training apparatus is disclosed herein for improved calorie burning and muscle toning. The weight training apparatus generally includes a pendulum mass suspended, e.g., via a flexible shaft, from a handle or other securing mechanism. A user swings the weight in a pendulum motion when exercising (walking, jogging, stationary, sitting or standing) providing for increased resistance. A flexible shaft may advantageously dampen/reduce shock and strain associated with the pendulum motion.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The subject application claims priority to and is a continuation-in-part (CIP) of copending U.S. application Ser. No. 13/544,990, entitled “Dynamic Weight Training Apparatus” and filed on Jul. 9, 2012, which, in turn, claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/505,283, also entitled “Dynamic Weight Training Apparatus” and filed on Jul. 7, 2011. The contents of both U.S. application Ser. No. 13/544,990 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/505,283 are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to personal fitness devices and, more particularly, to weight training.

2. Background Art

Weights are widely used for personal fitness. Conventional weights are generally held or otherwise secured in a static relationship relative to the hand, wrist, ankle or other body part. Although conventional weights provide some resistance a need exists for weight training apparatus that deliver higher efficiency workouts (i.e., burning calories at a higher rate for the same amount of weight). Furthermore conventional weights are typically high impact and can lead to injuries. Thus, a need exists for weight training apparatus that actively reduce/dampen changes in momentum as well as grip-related strain. These and other needs are addressed by the present disclosure.

SUMMARY

A dynamic weight training apparatus is disclosed herein for improved calorie burning and muscle toning. The weight training apparatus generally includes a pendulum mass suspended, e.g., via a flexible shaft from a handle or other securing mechanism. A user swings the weight in a pendulum motion when exercising (walking, jogging, stationary, sitting or standing) providing for increased resistance. The flexible shaft may also advantageously dampen/reduce shock and strain associated with the pendulum motion.

Additional features, functions and benefits of the disclosed apparatus will be apparent from the description which follows, particularly when read in conjunction with the appended figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

To assist those of ordinary skill in the art in making and using the disclosed apparatus, reference is made to the appended figures, wherein:

FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary dynamic weight training apparatus, according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 depicts alternative embodiments of a dynamic weight training apparatus including different configurations for the mass, connection arm (e.g., flexible shaft) and securing mechanism (e.g., handle), according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary mechanism for adjusting a position or balance of a pendulum mass in an exemplary dynamic weight training apparatus, according to the present disclosure.

FIGS. 4A-G depict another exemplary dynamic weight training apparatus, according to the present disclosure, including an optimal angle between the handle and the connection arm.

FIG. 5 depicts an alternative embodiment of a dynamic weight training apparatus, accordingly to the present disclosure, providing for an adjustable angle between the handle and the connection arm.

FIG. 6 depicts an alternative embodiment of a dynamic weight training apparatus, accordingly to the present disclosure, providing for interchangeable weight elements.

DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT(S)

The present disclosure related to a new dynamic weight training apparatus comprising a pendulum mass suspended a distance from a securing mechanism using a connection arm. In exemplary embodiments, the connection arm may exhibit elastic properties and act as a damper and spring to dampen, store and/or redistribute energy from a swinging motion of the mass. In general, the securing mechanism, e.g., handle, strap, band, belt, and/or other securing mechanism, may be adapted for securing the weight training apparatus relative to a user (e.g., the user may grip the handle). In exemplary embodiments, the dynamic weight training apparatus may similarly to a hand weight, e.g., for walking, running, or other forms of stationary or mobile exercise. By distancing the mass from the users' body and allowing for a dynamic swinging motion (e.g., such as resulting from the natural swinging motion of a user's arm while walking, running or performing other exercises), the distance the mass has to travel is increased relative to conventional hand weights. The resulting torsion force provides increased exercise resistance. In exemplary embodiments, the weight training apparatus may include a mechanism for adjusting the length of the shaft or the length of the securing mechanism (e.g., length of the handle) or for otherwise adjusting the distance between the mass and the fulcrum of the swinging motion (thereby adjusting the lever arm). In other exemplary embodiments, the weight training apparatus may include a mechanism for adjusting the flexibility of the flexible shaft. In exemplary embodiments, the mass and/or shaft may be interchangeable (e.g., the mass could be changed to increase or decrease resistance).

With reference to FIG. 1, an exemplary dynamic weight training apparatus 100 is depicted. The exemplary apparatus 100, depicted includes a securing mechanism 110 for gripping the apparatus 100 (e.g., one in each hand), a mass 140 (e.g., a two pound sprug weight), and a connecting arm 130 (e.g., a shaft made of molded rubber, nylon or plastic rod, flexible bar-stock) for connecting the mass 140 relative to the handle 110. Advantageously, the arm 130 suspends the mass 140 a distance (e.g., a predetermined set or variable distance) from the handle thereby acting as a lever arm. Thus, during exercise, the weight 140 advantageously results in a torsion force/resistance, e.g., proximal to the handle and by extension, wrist, elbow, shoulder, etc., wherein the torsion force/resistance at the handle is approximately equal to the cross product between the force exerted by the mass (mass times acceleration) and the length of the lever arm. Thus, the apparatus 100 advantageously utilizes mechanical advantage to create increased apparent resistance resulting in elevated physical exertion, e.g., relative to hand weights of similar weight.

The mass 140 may be made of any suitable material, e.g., metal, water, sand, metal-shot, etc. In some embodiments, the mass 140 may include a casing for holding weight elements, e.g., with sand, water, rocks, metal-shot, beads, etc. In some embodiments, the casing may be used to house a fluid, e.g., water or sand. The fluid may flow freely within the casing thereby dampening shifts in momentum. In exemplary embodiments, the casing may include an opening, e.g. a sealable opening, to allow the user to selectively fill the casing with weight elements to achieve a desired weight. In some embodiments, the mass 140 may be adjustable or interchangeable, e.g., to enable adjusting weight and/or balance.

In some embodiments, such as depicted in FIG. 1, the securing mechanism 110 may be a handle 110 and may further include a handle base 112 and a wrist strap 114 for securing the apparatus 100 relative to a user's wrist. The wrist strap 114 may advantageously increase comfort and stability and allow for grip relaxation/adjustment (grip relaxation may be important decrease blood pressure). The wrist strap 114 may advantageously pivot relative to the handle 110 (e.g., handle base 112 may include a hinge for hingedly connecting the wrist strap 114 relative to the handle base 112) thereby allowing for wrist flexion during exercise. In exemplary embodiments, the handle 110 may be offset at an angel relative to the arm 130 to allow for ergonomic positioning thereof (e.g., wherein the arm 130 is perpendicular to the ground when the handle 110 is held be a user in a natural position with the user's forearm 50 parallel to the ground).

In some embodiments, the arm 130 may be a flexion lever (e.g., a flexible shaft). The flexion lever may advantageously dampen forces resulting from sudden changes momentum thereby reducing shock and strain on a user's joints and muscles. In other embodiments, the arm 130 may be a rigid lever (e.g. a rigid shaft). In some embodiments, the arm 130 may resist both tension and compression. In other embodiments, the arm 130 may resist only tension (e.g., a rope, cord, bungee, etc. In some embodiments, the arm 130 may be fixed in length. In other embodiments, the arm 130 may have an adjustable and/or variable length. For example, the arm 130 may be interchangeable, e.g., to allow a user to change properties such as length, flexibility, etc. As another example the arm 130 may include a telescopic mechanism, links for adding or subtracting, and/or other mechanisms for adjusting the length of the arm. As yet another example, the arm 130 may include a spring mechanism to allow the arm to stretch and/or compress, e.g., within set constraints. In some embodiments, stretching and compressing may result in elastic forces which resist such changes in length. In yet other embodiments, the arm 130 may be interchangeable. The material for the arm 130 may be selected based on desired elastic/damping properties. In exemplary embodiments, the arm 130 may have adjustable elastic/damping properties (in some embodiments the arm 130 could have ability to lock-out any flexibility thus resulting in a rigid member). In some embodiments, the mass 140 may be an integral part of the arm 130, e.g., the arm 130 may in itself be the mass 140.

As noted above, the dynamic weight training apparatus 100 may advantageously help a user burn more calories and achieve a better work-out when compared with conventional hand weights of the same mass. Additional advantages are listed below:

-   -   By exercising with a pendulum mass suspended from a securing         mechanism, a user may experience a unique sensation relative         conventional exercise equipment. This sensation is notably         different than that achieved using hand weights.     -   The pendulum weight may advantageously result in a torsion         force/resistance which provides greater resistance during         exercise, e.g., relative to hand weights of similar weight.     -   Natural arm motion may be amplified by path the pendulum mass.     -   Spring and damping effects of the mass and/or connecting arm may         reduce/eliminate most shock to wrist.     -   Spring and damping effects may also add consistency to         resistance throughout arm movement (e.g., similar to swimming).     -   Energy may be stored from each arm stroke and used to actively         resist follow-on motion e.g., after reversal.     -   Compared to conventional hand weights, a smaller weight may be         utilized while providing the same resistance as a much larger         weight.     -   An ergonomic/balanced design e.g., based on a properly         configured handle and wrist strap, may result in a lower impact         workout. For example, a relative angle of a handle to the         connecting arm may result in a more natural position, therefore         reducing stress to hand and wrist.     -   Users may control the intensity of their workout without         carrying more weight, e.g., simply by adjusting the length of         the lever arm.     -   The apparatus may promote natural arm movement during exercise,         e.g., by complimenting natural walking motion.     -   Adjustable straps may allow a user to release/relax their grip,         e.g., to relax the neck and shoulders and/or lower blood         pressure, tension or stress.     -   The pendulum weight and flexion lever may provide dynamic         resistance and may redistribute/dampen jarring forces (such as         encountered when reversing motion of the mass).     -   The weight training apparatus may be used to all types of         exercises including, e.g., walking exercises, running exercises,         stationary/seated exercises, etc.     -   The weight training apparatus may minimize/reduce potential for         strain and/or shock induced injuries.     -   In cased of emergency, the weight training apparatus may be used         for self-defense, e.g., by swinging the mass at an attacker.     -   The adjustable nature of the weight training apparatus may be         used to optimize/customize physical exercise.

With reference to FIGS. 2A and 2B, two alternative embodiments 200 b and 200 b of a dynamic weight training apparatus are presented. For example, as depicted in FIG. 2A, the connection arm 230 a may extend from a top or side portion of the securing mechanism 210 a rather than a bottom portion, as in FIG. 1. In other embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 2B, the mass 240 b may be screwed onto the connection arm 230 b, e.g., using a screw mechanism 220 b, to enable interchangeability of the mass. Thus, as noted above, in exemplary embodiments, the weight training apparatus may have ability to interchange weights to allow consumer to add or remove weight, e.g., based on ability, comfort level, exercise type, etc.

As noted above, in the embodiments, the weight training apparatus could be adjustable to change the position/balance of the mass. With reference to FIG. 3, a further exemplary embodiment 300 of a dynamic weight training apparatus is presented enabling a user to adjust the position/balance of the mass 340. More particularly, the apparatus in FIG. 3 include a locking hinge mechanism 320 for adjusting the angle between the securing mechanism 310 and the connection arm 330, thereby adjusting the relative position/balance of the mass 340.

With reference to FIG. 4A, a further exemplary embodiment 400 of a dynamic weight training apparatus is depicted. The exemplary apparatus 400, depicted includes a securing mechanism 410 for gripping the apparatus 400 (e.g., one in each hand), a mass 440 and a connecting arm 430 for connecting the mass 440 relative to the handle 410. Advantageously, the arm 430 suspends the mass 440 a distance (e.g., a predetermined set or variable distance) from the handle thereby acting as a lever arm. Thus, during exercise, the weight 440 advantageously results in a torsion force/resistance, e.g., proximal to the handle and by extension, wrist, elbow, shoulder, etc., wherein the torsion force/resistance at the handle is approximately equal to the cross product between the force exerted by the mass (mass times acceleration) and the length of the lever arm.

As depicted in FIG. 4A, the securing mechanism 410 may be a handle 410 which may be operatively connected relative to the arm 430 at a proximal portion 432 thereof, e.g., relative to a first side of the arm 430. A wrist strap 414 may also be included for securing the apparatus 100 relative to a user's wrist. The wrist strap 414 may advantageously increase comfort and stability and allow for grip relaxation/adjustment (grip relaxation may be important decrease blood pressure). As depicted, the wrist strap 414 may advantageously be connected relative to the proximal portion 432 of the arm 430, e.g., via a slot in the proximal portion 432 of the arm 430. In some embodiments, the slot may be wider than the wrist strap 414 thereby allowing the wrist strap 414 to translate along the path of the slot. In some embodiments, the slot may define an arcuate or curved path for thee wrist strap 414 thereby enabling the wrist strap 414 to pivot relative to the arm 430, e.g., during such translation along the path of the slot. In other embodiments, the wrist strap 414 may be constructed from a flexible material thereby allowing for pivoting thereof. As noted above, such pivoting of the wrist strap may advantageously provide for wrist flexion during exercise. Moreover, the wrist strap 414 and slot may advantageously be configured to resist twisting, e.g., that is out of plane relative to the swing plane of the weight training apparatus (e.g., as defined by the swinging motion of the weight training apparatus). This may, e.g., help maintain proper alignment of the handle 410 relative to a user's hand even when the handle 410 is not gripped (e.g., released).

As depicted, the handle 410 is advantageously offset at an angel relative to the arm 430 to allow for ergonomic positioning thereof. In contrast with the embodiment 100 of FIG. 1 (wherein the angle is configured such that the arm 130 is substantially perpendicular to the ground when the handle 110 is held be a user in a natural position with the user's forearm 50 parallel to the ground), the angle in the embodiment 400 of FIG. 4A is configured to maintain substantial alignment of the arm 430 with a user's forearm 50 when the handle 410 is gripped with the user's wrist in neutral position. More particularly, as depicted in FIG. 4B, the arm 430 may define a longitudinal axis 430 a which is configured to align with a user's elbow joint 55 when the handle 410 is gripped with the user's wrist in neutral position. The angle between the handle 410 and the arm 430 may further be configured such that the moment (torsional forces) are substantially zero when the handle 410 is gripped with the user's wrist and arm in neutral position (e.g., arm hanging by the user's side, with the elbow slightly bent and the wrist by the user's pocket).

With reference still to FIG. 4A, the arm 430 may advantageously be structurally configured to resist bending forces, particularly, in the direction of torsional forces imparted by the mass 440. Thus, the arm 430 may include pair of support struts 434 and 436 extending at an acute angle relative to one another from a distal portion 433 of the arm 430 connected via an arcuate section 438 at the proximal portion 432 of the arm 430, thereby forming a substantially triangle-shaped support structure. The struts 434 and 436 and arcuate section 438 may further define an annulus, e.g., an annular protrusion around an outer circumference of the arm 430. A cutout or cavity portion 431 may advantageously reduce the overall weight of the arm 430.

With reference to FIG. 4C, the exemplary embodiment 400 is depicted suspended from user's wrist by the wrist strap 414 with the user not gripping (e.g., having released) the handle 410. Advantageously, the wrist strap 414 is configured such that the handle 410 is aligned with the forearm of the user when the users forearm is parallel to the ground and the eight training apparatus is suspended from the user's wrist via the wrist strap 414. This advantageously, enables a user to release the handle 410 and perform usual hand operations around the caudal region of the user, such as talking on the phone, wiping one's face, blowing one's nose, adjusting one's hat or scarf, etc. without the handle 410 or other parts of the weight training apparatus getting in the way of such operations. Advantageously, once the user's arm is lowed to a neutral position (e.g., arm hanging by the user's side, with the elbow slightly bent and the wrist by the user's pocket) the handle maintains alignment relative to the ground (substantially parallel to the ground) with the wrist strap 414 allowing for pivoting of the handle 410 relative the user's wrist and forearm such that the handle 410 is easily gripped/re-gripped by the user.

FIG. 4D depicts a user adjusting the wrist strap 414 of the exemplary embodiment 400. Thus the wrist strap may advantageously include a buckle/clasp element 414 c which advantageously enable the size of the wrist strap 414 to be adjusted. A distal end 414 b of the strap may then be secured, e.g., utilizing a Velcro material, a clip or other securing means. The wrist strap 414 may further advantageously include a padded portion/region 414 a for comfort purposes. For example, a rubber or gel type pad may be threaded through the strap.

FIG. 4E depicts a user utilizing the exemplary embodiment 400 of the weight training apparatus. In particular, FIG. 4E depicts how the angle of the handle 410 relative to the arm 430 of the weight training apparatus compliments natural arm swing when used in a walking motion. By extending the distance of weight 440 further from elbow joint, a smaller mass creates the same or greater torque as a larger hand-held mass.

FIG. 4F depicts exemplary dimensions and for the exemplary embodiment 400. Namely, the lever arm distance, from the handle 410 to the weight 440 (e.g., from a proximal end of the handle to a distal end of the weight) may be approximately 10″, or in some embodiments, between 7-13″, or preferably between 8-12″ or more preferably between 9-11″. In example embodiments, the length of the arm 430 may be approximately, 7″ or, in some embodiments, between 5-9″ or more preferably between 6-8″. In example embodiments, the angle between the handle 410 and the arm 430 may be approximately 90 degrees, (e.g., 94 degrees), or in some embodiments, between 70-110 degrees or more preferably between 80-100 degrees.

FIG. 4G depicts a pull apart view of the exemplary embodiment 400 illustrating example assembly components thereof. A main body 450 (e.g., which may be constructed of a pair of injection molded half body components) may define the arm 430, a post portion 410 a of the handle 410 and a (e.g., cylindrical) housing 440 a of the weight 440. The handle 410 may further include a (e.g., cylindrical) handle padding element 410 b which may fit over and be secured to the post portion 410 a via an handle end clip 410 c. As previously noted, a wrist strap 414 may be included which may include a strap portion 414 d a buckle/clasp element 414 c and a padded portion/region 414 a for comfort purposes. The weight 440 may be assembled by securing a mass 440 b in the housing 440 a via a pair of housing end pieces 440 c which may be secured via a screw or other securing means 440 d. The screw or other securing means 440 d may be hidden via a plug 440 e.

FIG. 5 depicts a further exemplary embodiment 500 of a weight training apparatus, according to the present disclosure. The exemplary embodiment 500 demonstrates a locking mechanism to adjust the angle between the handle and the arm.

FIG. 6 depicts yet a further exemplary embodiment 600 of a weight training apparatus, according to the present disclosure. The exemplary embodiment 600 demonstrates the ability to add or remove various weight pucks. These pucks can be of different weight to achieve more or less resistance dependent on the user's preference.

In exemplary embodiments, weight training apparatus of the present disclosure may be used for Dumbbell Weight exercises. In further exemplary embodiments, weight training apparatus of the present disclosure may be incorporated into a jump rope design, e.g. with the pendulum weight being suspended from the jump rope handles. In further exemplary embodiments, weight training apparatus of the present disclosure may generate electrical energy, e.g., based on the pendulum motion of the mass, using a piezoelectric transformer. In further exemplary embodiments, weight training apparatus of the present disclosure may include built in electronics, e.g., an MP3 player. In further exemplary embodiments, weight training apparatus of the present disclosure may have built in mace or pepper spray.

Although the teachings herein have been described with reference to exemplary embodiments and implementations thereof, the disclosed apparatus are not limited to such exemplary embodiments/implementations. Rather, as will be readily apparent to persons skilled in the art from the description taught herein, the disclosed apparatus are susceptible to modifications, alterations and enhancements without departing from the spirit or scope hereof. Accordingly, all such modifications, alterations and enhancements within the scope hereof are encompassed herein. 

1) A dynamic weight training apparatus comprising: a pendulum mass; a handle; and a connection arm wherein the pendulum mass is suspended a distance from the handle by way of the connection arm, whereby a pendulum motion of the pendulum mass is configured to impart a torsion force proximal to the securing mechanism, and wherein an angle between the handle and the connection arm is configured such that the pendulum mass is extended away from the handle substantially in-line with a user's forearm when the user grips the handle and the user's wrist is in a substantially neutral position. 2) The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the connection arm exhibits elastic properties and acts as one of (i) a damper and (ii) a spring to dampen store or redistribute energy from a swinging motion of the mass. 3) The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the length of the connection arm is adjustable. 4) The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the flexibility of the connection arm is adjustable. 5) The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mass is integral with the connection arm. 6) The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the connection arm extends from a bottom portion of the handle. 7) The apparatus of claim 1, wherein a weight of the mass is adjustable. 8) The apparatus of claim 1, wherein a balance of the mass is adjustable. 9) The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the pendulum mass is suspended a fixed distance from the handle. 10) The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the pendulum mass is suspended a variable distance from the handle. 11) The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the connection arm provides torsional resistance as between the pendulum mass and the handle. 12) The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the connection arm comprises a rigid lever. 13) The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the angle between the handle and the connection arm is configured such that torsional forces are substantially zero when the handle is gripped by the user with the user's wrist and arm in neutral position. 14) The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the angle between the handle and the connection arm is between 80-100 degrees. 15) A method for exercising, the method comprising: providing a dynamic weight training apparatus including a pendulum mass suspended a distance from a handle via a connection arm wherein an angle between the handle and the connection arm is configured such that the pendulum mass is extended away from the handle substantially in-line with a user's forearm when the user grips the handle and the user's wrist is in a substantially neutral position; and performing an exercise so as to cause the pendulum weight to swing in a pendulum motion, thereby imparting a torsion force proximal to the securing mechanism. 16) The method of claim 15, wherein the connection arm is a rigid lever. 17) The method of claim 15, wherein the connection arm is flexion lever which exhibits elastic properties and acts as one of (i) a damper and (ii) a spring to dampen store or redistribute energy from a swinging motion of the mass. 18) The method of claim 15, wherein the connection arm provides torsional resistance as between the pendulum mass and the handle. 19) The method of claim 15, wherein the pendulum motion results from the natural swinging motion of a user's arm while walking. 20) The method of claim 15, wherein the angle between the handle and the connection arm is configured such that torsional forces are substantially zero when the handle is gripped by the user with the user's wrist and arm in neutral position. 